Inventors:
Kelvin J. Witcher - Hudson WI, US
William E. Foltz - Cottage Grove MN, US
Sailaja Chandrapati - Woodbury MN, US
Thomas T. Rosenlund - Stillwater MN, US
Robert A. Asmus - Hudson WI, US
Ronald G. Lulich - Brookings SD, US
Assignee:
3M Innovative Properties Company - St. Paul MN
International Classification:
C12M 1/34
Abstract:
Sterilization indicator test packs for testing the effectiveness of a sterilization procedure are provided. Both non-challenge and challenge-type test packs are disclosed. The non-challenge test packs include generally comprise a tray for holding a sterilization indicator the tray containing an elevated rim surface defining the perimeter of the tray and a recessed trough for receiving a sterilization indicator. The rim surface includes a plurality of spaced-apart grooves along its length extending through the rim to the recessed trough; a sterilization indicator within the recessed trough of the tray; and a lid that forms a plurality of channels with the grooves in the tray such that sterilant can enter the tray through the channels and contact the sterilization indicator. The challenge-type test packs generally include a tray for holding a sterilization indicator, the tray comprising a substantially planar surface, a recessed trough for receiving a sterilization indicator, and a recessed groove of a defined length and cross-sectional area extending through the recessed trough and penetrating the edge of the tray; a sterilization indicator within the recessed trough of the tray; and a lid forming a substantially sterilant-impermeable seal with the planar surface of the tray and forming a lumen path with the recessed groove in the tray.
